Every year, the fatality rate from motorcycle accidents rises. In 2006, almost 5,000 motorcyclists were killed (an increase of 5% over 2005) and 88,000 injured in this country. Phoenix motorcycle accident attorney Jerrold A. Mayro, is an experienced motorcycle accident attorney, and he wants to help you, too.
Due to the lack of a barrier between the motorcycle operator and other vehicles, motorcycle accidents are amongst the deadliest types of auto accidents. In fact, in 2006, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 11 percent of all traffic fatalities involved a motorcycle. In motorcycle fatalities, head injuries are usually to blame when motorcycle riders and passengers are thrown from the vehicle during a crash. As far as injuries, a leg fracture is the most common type of injury in a motorcycle accident and one that may necessitate amputation of a limb, extended recuperation, therapy and lost time at work. Other types of injuries include arm fractures and spinal cord injuries.
Motorcycles provide their riders with an additional sense of freedom, but this sensation comes with a risk. Regardless, so long as you are an aware and capable motorist, statistics should not deter you from seeking the open, Arizona roads on a motorcycle.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Approximately one-third of motorcycle accidents are due to another motorist invading the motorcycle’s path. Considering all motorists are aware of the lack of protection afforded to motorcycle operators, negligence of this nature is inexcusable. Even at minor speeds, a fender bender with a motorcycle can cause serious harm and even the wrongful death of the operator.
In addition to another vehicle turning into the path of a motorcycle, motorcycle accidents commonly occur from:
- A drunk driving accident
- Sleep deprivation
- Bad weather
Motorcycles are inherently less stable than four-wheeled automobiles. Consequently, mechanics must provide pristine care to their client’s motorcycles. Failure to do so may result in an accident of catastrophic nature. Mechanic negligence can include:
- Not aligning a misaligned tire
- Failing to recognize a tire’s treads have been worn down and require replacement
- Neglecting to see an engine problem or break failure
Another consequence of motorcycles being less stable than typical automobiles is increased susceptibility to poor road conditions. Loose gravel or potholes ignored by county officials can cause a motorcycle operator to lose control.
Who is at fault when a car makes a left turn in front of a motorcycle, resulting in an accident?
Typically, the vehicle making a left turn is found to be at fault because those who make left turns must yield to oncoming traffic; this is so regardless of whether the left turning vehicle is a car or motorcycle. However, an investigation will also consider fault of the vehicle with the right of way particularly where excess speed, carelessness or alcohol are involved.
Compensation For Your Injuries
Motorcycle accidents often cause catastrophic personal injury or even death to the operator. If another party’s negligence resulted in your motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Loss of wages
- Personal injury
- Property damage
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional stress and hardship
If You Were in a Motorcycle Accident, Contact Attorney Jerrold Mayro
Most importantly, it may be important to accept any medical treatment offered at the accident site. If you refuse treatment and later require medical assistance for an injury, insurance companies may claim you are demonstrating deceitful behavior.
If your bike requires repair, be certain to photograph damages and consult with a motorcycle accident attorney before bringing it to a mechanic.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, please contact Jerrold Mayro today or call (602) 604-8400 to schedule your personal consultation with Jerrold A. Mayro.